Era Iyer, an 8th grade student at Stratford Fremont Middle School, was recently honored by the American Red Cross Silicon Valley Chapter for her efforts to raise money to rebuild communities in Japan destroyed after the Earthquake and Tsunami of March 11, 2011. Era designed an image for a coffee cup and sold the cups to raise $1,200 toward the effort.

The American Red Cross Silicon Valley Chapter, founded in 2009, depends on generous volunteer contributions to provide services and programs that prevent, prepare for, and respond to emergencies. Era is among these volunteers.

"After hearing about the Tsunami that struck Japan, I knew I had to do everything I could to help," said Era. "Once I heard how much my contributions helped, I realized that there was nothing better than knowing you saved someone's life," she added.

Stratford school says they couldn't be more proud of Era and her willingness and passion to help others. The school feels that she is truly is a great example to her peers by demonstrating the importance of showing compassion to others, helping those in need, and going the extra mile to make our world a better place!